Explain why sexual reproduction produces offspring with more genetic variation than asexual reproduction.

AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.6.1 Reproduction · Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Sexual reproduction produces offspring with more genetic variation because it involves the fusion of male and female gametes during fertilisation. The gametes are produced by meiosis, which generates non‑identical cells with different combinations of alleles. When fertilisation occurs, the alleles from two different parents combine, creating new allele combinations in the offspring. In contrast, asexual reproduction uses only one parent and produces genetically identical offspring, so no new genetic variation is introduced.

Examiner tips

  • Use the term ‘fertilisation’ and ‘meiosis’ to show understanding of the processes.
  • Explain how meiosis creates non‑identical gametes and how fertilisation mixes alleles from two parents.
  • Contrast this with asexual reproduction producing clones.
  • Keep the answer concise and use the exact terminology from the mark scheme.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing mitosis with meiosis for gamete formation.
  • Failing to mention fertilisation as the step that combines alleles.
  • Using vague terms like ‘mixing’ instead of ‘combining alleles’.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes (fertilisation)
  2. Gametes are produced by meiosis, which produces non-identical cells / gametes with different combinations of alleles
  3. Fertilisation combines alleles from two parents, producing new combinations of alleles in the offspring
  4. Asexual reproduction involves only one parent and produces genetically identical offspring (so no genetic variation)

Key terms in this question

sexual reproduction · asexual reproduction

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